Where did sentencing circles originated?

Where did sentencing circles originated?

Where did sentencing circles originated?

Sentencing circles have been developed most extensively in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Yukon and have been used occasionally in several other communities. Their use spread to the United States in 1996 when a pilot project was initiated in Minnesota. and a shared responsibility in finding constructive resolutions.

Who created sentencing circles?

Judge Barry Stuart
The first use of a sentencing circle as part of a criminal justice trial was in 1992, by Yukon Territorial Court Judge Barry Stuart in R. v. Moses. 9 Stuart based the process on procedures used by First Nations communities in Mayo.

When did circle sentencing start?

February 2002
Circle sentencing was introduced in New South Wales on a trial basis at Nowra in February 2002. This report reviews and evaluates the first 12 months of the trial’s operation.

Where are sentencing circles used?

Sentencing circles have been used in much of the country, mostly at the provincial/territorial court level, in minor criminal cases involving Aboriginal offenders and their victims.

What are Aboriginal sentencing circles?

A sentencing circle can be described8 as a process by which an Aboriginal offender is sentenced by a judge who hears recommendations from the offender’s fellow community members. Sentencing circles often take place in the offender’s home community9. Victims may or may not participate in sentencing circles.

What are healing circles?

Healing circles are often called hocokah in the Lakota language, which means a sacred circle and is also the word for altar. The hocokah consists of people who sit together in a talking circle, in prayer, in ceremony, and are committed to helping one another and to each other’s healing.

What are the drawbacks of circle sentencing?

Circles are not for people facing murder or sexual assault charges. Circle sentencing is not an easy way out for offenders. Punishments tend to fall in the middle-to-heavy end of penalties. The program often involves culturally appropriate, intensive supervision of participants.

Is Circle sentencing legal?

Circle Sentencing is an alternative sentencing method for Aboriginal offenders, which is available in 12 NSW Local Courts.

How do Aboriginal sentencing circles work?

What are some disadvantages of circle sentencing?

What happens at a sentencing circle?